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How Themes in Literature Can Inform Sociological Theory, Research, and Teaching

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Abstract

In this article we revisit the strategy of using literature to inform sociology. We address a central question: what literary themes are generally ignored by sociologists, and how can sociology as a discipline benefit by incorporating such themes in theories of social processes? We identify ten themes that are common in literature but not common in sociological analyses: optimism, pessimism, ambition, indolence, betrayal, revenge, curiosity, apathy, doubt, and certainty. We first provide examples of how each theme is addressed in classic literature e.g., in works of fiction, poetry, religious texts, etc. and discuss their importance in understanding facets of the human condition. We then discuss how considering each theme can benefit theory and research in sociology. We conclude with a discussion of what changes must occur within the discipline of sociology to encourage sociologists to look beyond common themes and toward new areas of inquiry.

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Notes

  1. Max Weber conceived an “ideal type” (or “pure type”) as a conceptual/comparative tool that represents the abstract, essential features of some phenomenon.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Sociology Department, California State University, Northridge, 18111 Nordhoff Street, Northridge, CA, 91330-8318, USA

    Michael J. Carter

  2. English Department, California State University, Bakersfield, 9001 Stockdale Highway, Bakersfield, CA, 93311, USA

    Steven Carter

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Carter, M.J., Carter, S. How Themes in Literature Can Inform Sociological Theory, Research, and Teaching. Am Soc 45, 388–411 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12108-014-9221-1

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